Indulge in the Ultimate Keto Comfort Food: Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
Are you craving the rich, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but sticking to a keto lifestyle? Look no further! Our Keto Philly Cheesesteak Pizza combines the best of both worlds, giving you the indulgence of a cheesy, meaty pizza without the carbs. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone on a ketogenic diet, offering a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food. With a crispy, low-carb crust and a topping loaded with melted cheese and tender steak, this pizza is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your macros in check.
The secret to this mouthwatering pizza lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures, all while maintaining a low net carb count. It’s a fantastic option for a keto-friendly dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste for nutrition. Whether you’re a keto veteran or just starting out, this Philly cheesesteak pizza will become a staple in your meal rotation. So preheat your oven and get ready to delight in every bite of this guilt-free indulgence!
The Inspiration Behind Keto Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
The inspiration for this Keto Philly Cheesesteak Pizza comes from a love of hearty, satisfying meals that fit within the ketogenic lifestyle. Merging the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the universal appeal of pizza, this dish is a testament to the versatility and creativity possible within a keto diet. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t have to give up your favorite flavors when you’re cutting carbs – you just need to get creative!
Each ingredient has been chosen for its low-carb profile and ability to mimic the traditional tastes we all know and love. Almond flour and coconut flour create a pizza crust that’s not only low in carbs but also gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. The combination of mozzarella and provolone cheese provides the perfect melt and flavor, reminiscent of the classic cheesesteak experience. The thinly sliced ribeye steak is a nod to the authentic Philly cheesesteak, ensuring that each bite is packed with protein and essential fats, crucial for anyone following a ketogenic diet.
Incorporating high-quality fats and proteins while keeping the carb count low is the cornerstone of keto cooking. This recipe excels in providing a balance of macronutrients that align with keto goals, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal without the carb overload. It’s a delicious way to stay on track with your health objectives while indulging in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Mastering the Keto Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
The key to perfecting the Keto Philly Cheesesteak Pizza lies in the details. When preparing the crust, ensure your dry ingredients are well-mixed to avoid any clumps. This will help create a uniform texture that mimics traditional pizza dough. When adding the wet ingredients, mix until just combined to prevent the dough from becoming tough.
Rolling out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper is a pro tip that prevents sticking and allows you to achieve your desired thickness with ease. Remember, the thinner the crust, the crispier it will be. If you’re a fan of a crispier base, consider pre-baking the crust for an additional 2-3 minutes before adding the toppings.
When cooking the steak, aim for a medium-high heat to get a nice sear without overcooking. The goal is to lock in the juices for tender, flavorful meat that will elevate your pizza. And don’t forget to let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking – this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is succulent.
Assembling the pizza is your chance to get creative. Spread the cheese evenly for a perfect melt, and distribute the steak, peppers, and onions in a way that ensures every slice is loaded with toppings. The final bake is crucial – watch for the cheese to become bubbly and golden, signaling that your keto masterpiece is ready to enjoy.
Variations to Spice Up Your Keto Pizza
Spicy Keto Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
For those who love a kick of heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your pizza before baking. The spice will complement the richness of the meat and cheese, adding an extra layer of flavor that’s sure to please any spice enthusiast.
White Sauce Keto Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
Swap out the traditional red sauce for a creamy, garlicky white sauce. You can make a keto-friendly version using heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and garlic. This variation offers a decadent twist that pairs beautifully with the steak and cheese.
Vegetable-Loaded Keto Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
For a veggie boost, add some spinach, mushrooms, or even artichoke hearts to your pizza. These low-carb vegetables will add texture and nutrients, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Substitutions for Your Keto Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
Almond Flour: If you’re allergic to almonds, try using ground sunflower seed meal as a one-to-one substitute. It offers a similar texture and is also low in carbs, making it an excellent alternative for the keto crust.
Cheese: If you can’t find provolone, feel free to use additional mozzarella or even a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile while still keeping it keto-friendly.
Steak: While ribeye is traditional for a Philly cheesesteak, you can also use flank steak or even ground beef as a more cost-effective option. Just ensure it’s cooked well and seasoned to maintain that classic cheesesteak flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Can I make this pizza dairy-free? | Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well to keep this pizza keto and dairy-free. |
| Is this pizza crust really like traditional pizza crust? | While it’s not identical due to the absence of gluten, this keto crust offers a satisfyingly crisp texture and a neutral flavor that pairs well with the toppings. |
| Can I prepare the crust ahead of time? | Absolutely! You can pre-bake the crust and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days or in the freezer for a longer shelf life. |
| How do I store leftovers? | Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results. |
| Can I use a different type of meat? | Yes, while ribeye is traditional, you can use chicken or pork as a low-carb alternative. Just ensure it’s thinly sliced and well-seasoned. |
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Keto Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- Whisk
- Parchment paper
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Skillet
- Rolling pin
Ingredients
Pizza Crust
- 1 ½ cups almond flour 150g
- ¼ cup coconut flour 30g
- 1 tsp baking powder 4g
- ½ tsp xanthan gum 2g
- ½ tsp salt 2g
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup olive oil 60ml
Toppings
- ½ pound thinly sliced ribeye steak 225g
- ½ tsp garlic powder 1g
- ½ tsp onion powder 1g
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil 15ml
- ½ green bell pepper, thinly sliced 75g
- ¼ onion, thinly sliced 28g
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 100g
- ½ cup provolone cheese 50g
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, xanthan gum, and salt.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then mix in the olive oil.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients to form the pizza dough.
- Between two sheets of parchment paper, roll the dough out to your desired thickness.
- Remove the top parchment paper and transfer the crust with the bottom paper to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until slightly golden.
- While the crust is baking, season the ribeye steak with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet and cook the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side or until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the green bell pepper and onion until softened.
- Once the crust is prebaked, remove it from the oven and spread the mozzarella and provolone cheese evenly over the crust.
- Add the cooked steak, bell peppers, and onions on top of the cheese layer.
- Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Slice and serve hot.
